Rudy's Rumour Mill: Atleti keen on Fabio Silva, Torino eyeing Belgium-based defender

Borussia Dortmund's Fabio Silva is attracting interest in LaLiga
Borussia Dortmund's Fabio Silva is attracting interest in LaLigaReuters / Daniele Mascolo

Fabio Silva has been included on Atletico Madrid’s wishlist, Torino are eyeing Jose Marsa to strengthen their defence, and Hoffenheim are ready to secure a bargain deal for Alessandro Vogt. Here are some of the main stories over the last few days on the transfer market from Tribal Football's transfer expert, Rudy Galetti.

Fabio Silva on Atletico Madrid’s wishlist

Fabio Silva has emerged this week as a possible attacking option for Atletico Madrid in the next transfer window. The Spanish club is collecting profiles of strikers as they prepare for a potential departure of Julian Alvarez in the summer. 

The Portuguese international, currently at Borussia Dortmund, is among the names being considered. Atletico are looking for the right player to strengthen their attack, and Silva’s name was already mentioned during the last summer window. Coach Diego Simeone reportedly described him as a very interesting player. This is Silva’s first season in Germany.

So far, he has scored two goals and provided six assists in 28 appearances, playing just over 800 minutes. His role has been limited - and, also for this reason, he’s open to considering other options at the end of the season - but he has shown efficiency when given the chance. 

His latest goal came in a dramatic Bundesliga match against RB Leipzig, where he scored a late equaliser to keep Dortmund close to the top of the table - although the 2-3 defeat against Bayern Munich in the last round increased the gap from the Bavarians to 11 points. Still only 23, Silva has already played in Portugal, England, Belgium, the Netherlands and Scotland. A move to Madrid could represent the next important step in his career.

Austria’s next defensive star drawing European interest

Jakob Pokorny is rapidly becoming one of the most exciting young defenders in Austrian football. The 18-year-old centre-back, currently playing for FC Liefering in the second division, is already attracting attention from clubs in Italy and Germany.

Pokorny recently captained Austria’s Under-17 national team to the World Cup final, where they were narrowly defeated by Portugal. Despite the loss, his leadership and maturity impressed many observers. Strong in duels, calm in possession and tactically intelligent, he represents the profile of a modern central defender with significant potential for growth. 

Interest around him is increasing quickly. Como have already made contact to gather information about his situation with the possibility of bringing him to the Serie A, while several Bundesliga clubs are closely monitoring his development. Meanwhile, RB Salzburg are aware of the growing attention and are expected to offer him a full professional contract soon.

For now, Pokorny remains focused on his performances with Liefering. However, the coming weeks could be decisive for his future. With international interest building, Salzburg face an important decision: secure one of Austria’s brightest young talents for the future, or risk seeing him move abroad sooner than expected.

Torino eyeing Jose Marsa to strengthen defence

Torino are exploring options to reinforce their defence ahead of next season, and a new name has emerged on their shortlist. The Granata have shown concrete interest in Jose Marsa, currently playing for KV Mechelen. Marsa, 23, is a left-footed centre-back who can also operate as a left-back.

Born in Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain, he developed in the youth academy of FC Barcelona, where he played for the B team. He later gained experience in Portugal with Sporting CP, and in Spain with Sporting Gijon and FC Andorra. Since July 2024, Marsa has been at KV Mechelen, where he wears the number three shirt and is under contract until June 2027.

His market value is estimated at around €3 million, making him a relatively accessible target for a club like Torino, which, after a difficult period and the dismissal of former coach Marco Baroni, returned to victory against Lazio under the guidance of new manager Roberto D'Aversa.

The Spanish defender has also represented Spain at the Under-19 level, confirming his strong potential. With Torino looking to refresh their back line, Marsa fits the profile of a young, versatile player who could grow in Serie A - a summer move cannot be ruled out if the right offer arrives.

Hoffenheim ready to secure bargain deal for Swiss striker Vogt

TSG Hoffenheim are expected to announce the signing of Alessandro Vogt in the coming weeks, with the Swiss striker set to move to the Bundesliga this summer. The 22-year-old forward is currently enjoying a strong season with FC St. Gallen and has confirmed his value as one of the most promising attackers in Switzerland. 

Vogt has scored 14 goals and provided three assists this season. His latest two goals were decisive, helping St. Gallen come back to win 2-1 against FC Winterthur in the last league match. Despite the expected transfer in the summer, the player remains focused on finishing the season in the best possible way with his current club. What really stands out in this deal is the financial detail.

Vogt has a release clause of around €2.7 million, a figure considered very low for a striker with his numbers and potential. Hoffenheim’s management were surprised, but also very pleased, when they discovered this clause, seeing it as a clear market opportunity. In today’s transfer market, finding a young and productive striker at such a price is rare.

For Hoffenheim, this looks like a smart and strategic investment. For St. Gallen, however, it could mean losing their best striker for a fee many already call a bargain.

Sakala set for a European return after Saudi Arabian stint

After three impressive seasons in Saudi Arabia, Fashion Sakala is attracting strong interest ahead of the summer transfer window. The Zambian forward has been one of the standout players for Al Fayha, delivering consistent goals and dynamic performances both as a winger and a central striker. 

His speed, direct style and ability to attack space have made him one of the most effective players in his position in the league over the past two years. Sakala has become a key figure for his team, often making the difference in important matches. With his contract set to expire in July, the 28-year-old will become a free agent. 

This situation has alerted several European clubs looking for quality reinforcements at no transfer cost. At this stage, RC Lens are understood to be the most interested side. The French club is closely monitoring his situation and believes he fits the attacking profile the team wants to add to their squad.

There is also interest from England, with clubs from the Premier League in the mix. With no transfer fee required, Sakala represents a valuable market opportunity, and all signs point toward a likely return to European football this summer.

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